DEFINITION OF MANAGEMENT FROM THE ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

anagement from the Islamic perspective is defined as, the ability to utilize resource both material and human, optimally in order to achieve goals, be it short terms goal or long

terms ones. The Islamic way of managing things has been practiced since the area of our last Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. it was based on the teachings generated from the Holy Al-Quran and he As-Sunnah. The holy Al-Quran and As-Sunnah were source that provided guidance in making decisions. The Islamic leadership under our Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. through the Islamic way of managing things had created a strong (Muslim) society with prominent characteristic such as: 1. Team spirit that practiced teamwork 2. A strong and clear vision and mission. 3. Values for loving and caring 4. Emphasis for trust and relationship, coorporation and teamwork

The Principle of Islamic Management

There are several principle of Islamic management which are: The ultimate goal of our life should be harmoniously linked with the worldly aims. Humans asKhalifah must be able to balance their short term and long term such as serving Allah, worshipping Him and seeking His worthy pleasure and rewards.

The moral/religious values of work should be integrated in the work of activities we do. Working is not merely a means for materials gains, but also a moral obligation and a measure of pleasing Allah and getting near to Him.

Time is to be well invested, not be wasted Time is commodity (product), therefore use time efficiently by being punctual, be diligent.

Self criticism (muhasabah) Should be exercised and should be practiced by all at all levels. There shall be n favoritism and discrimination means that be fair to all.

Human nature and need should be both considered simultaneously. Both psychological and economical contracts of a person must be met.

Employee must be paid sufficiently promptly There should be conducive rewards for exceptional achievement and adequate measures to detect and prevent violation

Syura Consultation is based on mutual discussion and inculcating coorperation among members of organization.

Functions in Islamic Management

The Islamic management practices the following elements: 1. Planning 2. Organizing 3. Leading (motivation) 4. Controlling (execution)

They are explained below: 1. Planning (setting objectives) According to Tan Sri Dr. Muhammad Abdul Rauf in his book, management and administration (an Islamic perspective) planning is needed to manage, especially in the fast moving, ever changing and complex environment are living in, to ensure success. Planning was practiced by our prophet Muhammad s.aw. in many incidents that he had gone through. The planning process of setting objectives/goals is also practiced in Islam.

2. Organizing Organizing is the structure of projects as well as the structure of roles to be undertaken by human efforts. This means, in Islam, organizing comparies the structuring of an organization structure, utilization of resources (human), authority, power and the practice of delegation as well as decentralization and centralization.

3. Leading (motivation) From the Islamic point of view, leadership refers to the process of moving people in a planned direction by motivating them.

The characteristics of an Islamic leader are: 1. He has allegiance to Allah (faithful) 2. He has global perceived goals of organization not only in terms of individual or group interest but also from a wider Islamic perspective. 3. He adheres to the syariah and the Islamic manner of doings things. 4. He delegates trust.

To be affective, Islamic leaders follow these principles. They are:

i.

Syura (mutual consultation) Syura emphasizes on the importance of managing through teamwork. The AlQuran has made clear that Muslim leaders are obligated to consult those with knowledge and those who would provide good advice.

ii.

Justice This is second hallmark of Islamic leadership. The leader should deal with people justly and fairly regardless of race, color, national origin or religion. The AlQuran commands Muslim to be fair even when dealing with people whose oppose them.

iii.

Freedom of expression Muslim leaders are encouraged to provide for an even invite constructive critism. Two way communications is practiced here. Members may freely voice their views or objections and have their questions answered. Masruiah This is the concept of legality whereby the management has to ensure that any action taken must be within the legal boundary of the common/man-made laws and the syariah laws.

iv.

v.

Qualification The principles look at the importance of selecting the right management personnel. The selection of new personal should not be based on self interest or favoritism. It should base on the person ability, expertise, experience and other suitable criteria that fits the jobs.

vi.

Reward Managers must be fair in nay action and reward people accordingly. Employees who performed their tasks or responsibilities well should be given reward.

4. Controlling (Execution) Controlling from the Islamic perspective is defined as the application of the procedure prescribed and organized according to plan as well as the performance of the roles defined and specified under the organization. In simple terms this means carrying out the plans and assuring that the results will conform to the actual plans.

Conclusion
Islamic management is the right way of managing people and organization. The basic for Islamic management is the Al-Quran and the As-Sunnah. The holy Al-Quran and As-Sunnah were source that provided guidance in making decisions. The Islamic leadership under our Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. through the Islamic way of managing things had created a strong (Muslim) society with prominent characteristic. Furthermore, practicing the principles of Islamic management enables leaders and managers to achieve unity among the followers/members of the organization quickly. This enhances the quality performance in our work and life.